Nate Boone Craft, Detroit, MI Death, Obituary – Family Mourns Former Hitman Known as “Boone”

Nate Boone Craft, a notorious Detroit figure who acknowledged involvement in numerous killings and was associated with the Best Friends drug organization, has died at the age of 69. His family announced his passing on social media, with his son saying Craft died in his sleep on Wednesday.

Craft, known to some as “Boone” or “Boone Love,” grew up on Detroit’s east side and became associated with the city’s criminal underworld during the 1970s and 1980s. He later served roughly 18 years in federal prison before being released after cooperating with federal authorities.

A Notorious Detroit Figure

Craft gained notoriety for his role as a contract killer and for his association with the Best Friends drug gang. In a 2018 interview, he openly discussed his past and described himself as the “Grim Reaper.”

Over the years, Craft claimed responsibility for or admitted involvement in at least 30 murders. His history also included associations with Detroit drug figures, including Rick “Maserati Rick” Carter, who was murdered in 1988.

Despite his violent reputation, those who knew Craft later in life described another side of him. Family members remembered him as a father and a significant presence in the lives of those close to him.

Family Mourns Nate Boone Craft

Following his death, Craft’s son, Nate Craft, paid tribute to his father and asked for support with funeral expenses. He described his father as a pillar to people who crossed his path and said the family was struggling to navigate the loss while making final arrangements.

Detroit crime writer Scott Burnstein also remembered Craft as a physically imposing figure whose past had made him a feared presence on the streets.

Craft’s death marks the end of a complicated and controversial life deeply connected to Detroit’s criminal history. While his past remains a significant part of his public story, his family is now grieving the loss of a father and loved one.

Nate Boone Craft is survived by family members who are remembering him in their own way as they make arrangements to honor his life.